This group of design professionals is trained and qualified to undertake building design and construction projects for clients in both residential and commercial spheres. Architectural designers work with clients to establish a clear design brief, before drawing up the plans, submitting them to the local territorial authority and, if required by the client, project managing the construction phase.

When looking for an architectural designer to help with building designs for home renovations, home additions, custom home plans or building designs, here are some things to consider.

What is an architectural designer?

While the term means different things in different countries, in New Zealand, architectural designers are licensed building practitioners, trained in the technicalities of design and detailing, who are able to provide full working drawings and plans for building designs.

Architectural designers will provide architectural drawings that bring your vision to life, turning floor plans into reality and often creating 3D rendering to bring the project alive before it is realised, whether it is a whole building development, a floor plan and design for a pool house design and construction or a long-imagined exotic internal staircase design. And if sustainable design is desired – then there is plenty of expertise in this area too.

How do I choose an architectural designer?

Choosing an architectural designer is a vital consideration for any building project, including any home addition, home renovation or alteration. So, when looking to begin home renovations, and developing custom plans for home additions, or residential, commercial or industrial construction, it is worth considering what you need from your architectural design specialist.

Look carefully at their portfolio and experience, as the skills required for tiny house construction, a modular home addition or modular home construction can be quite different to those needed for large commercial, industrial or broader residential developments.

How will I know if an architectural designer is the right fit for my project?

Approach a number of architectural designers before settling on one - even those who come with a referral from a friend may not be the perfect fit for every job. View examples of their recent work by taking time to look through their portfolio on ArchiPro and make a shortlists of potential designers whose work stands out to you.

What is sustainable design?

Sustainable designs seek to completely eliminate the negative environmental impact of developments and construction by employing skilful structural engineering and design techniques. This includes ensuring the use of green and sustainable materials, making use of natural light, providing for adequate insulation and using materials that will absorb natural heat to reduce the need for internal heating apparatus.

If a sustainable design is high on your list of priorities, then there are plenty of architectural designers who specialise in this field and bring a strong track record in exceptional delivery.